ONE of Suffolk's most historic pubs is set to fully re-open 12 months after fire ripped through the thatch causing more than £100,000 of damage.The Licensees of the Ship Inn at Levington are planning to mark this long awaited moment with a grand party on April 5.

By Georgina James

ONE of Suffolk's most historic pubs is set to fully re-open 12 months after fire ripped through the thatch causing more than £100,000 of damage.

The Licensees of the Ship Inn at Levington are planning to mark this long awaited moment with a grand party on April 5.

Bill and Shirley Waite have endured a torrid 11 months and are now looking forward to getting back to full swing and resuming normal service behind the bar.

Mrs Waite said: "It's going to be a fabulous day and one that we will remember.

"All our loyal customers and friends who have helped us through this very difficult period will be here with us to celebrate."

Fire started in the chimney of the pub and savaged the grade II listed building in May last year and since that dreadful day Mr and Mrs Waite have been working tirelessly to try and re-build their business.

Through their resilience and with a lot of help from the people of Levington, the popular pub was able to open its doors in August last year - but only to a quarter of its capacity.

With work almost complete, with the thatch having been laid, it is less than three weeks until the thriving village pub can return to having a packed bar and a busy restaurant.